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I decide to believe it’s the last one.

“I wanted to make sure we have everything we need and that we’re progressing according to schedule,” I answer honestly.

There’s no point dressing it up.

I want these casinos and clubs operating by the new deadline I’ve set.

That part is nonnegotiable.

“I’d also like,” I continue after a brief pause, my gaze checking quickly her practical work clothes, “to go over a few things, if you have the time.”

Selene doesn’t answer immediately.

Instead, she shifts her weight with the same effortless composure she always seems to possess and walks past me.

“Looks like the break I announced came at the perfect time,” she says.

Her voice is quiet, but clear enough for me to hear.

“Are you coming?”

She doesn’t glance back.

She simply keeps walking.

Already expecting me to follow.

A low breath leaves my lungs as I turn after her.

What other choice do I fucking have, Selene?

SIX

Selene

“There’s no way we can finish all of them in such a short time,” I snap, walking to the open window of the empty room.

We moved down to the third floor so we could talk in peace, away from everyone else.

But there’s nothing peaceful about this conversation after hearing the nonsense he’s asking for. And he doesn’t even suggest it. He doesn’t ask. He demands.

“If you need more people…”

“Stop setting deadlines without discussing them with me first, then offer me solutions to problems you’re the one causing,” I cut him off.

“Selene.” He doesn’t even look fazed by my outburst. “The deadline stays as I set it,” he says firmly, making it clear there’s no room for negotiation. “Tell me what you need, and I’ll provide it.”

I draw in a slow breath, trying to steady myself, then fold my arms across my chest and lock eyes with him.

Big damn mistake.

“Zayn, I need—and I want—to personally oversee every single piece of work,” I explain, keeping my voice measured. “No project gets completed unless I supervise every stage closely.”

It’s a rule I’ve followed since the day I started this company, and I’m not breaking it now for him.

I can tell he’s about to argue, but I lift a hand, stopping him.

“That means I have to keep moving from one casino to another, and the same goes for the clubs,” I add, frustration creeping into my voice.